NETGEAR WGE111 user manual Wireless Networking Basics

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User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless PC Card WG511

The primary information conveyed in the Beacon frames is the authentication method and the cipher suite. Possible authentication methods include 802.1X and Pre-shared key. Pre-shared key is an authentication method that uses a statically configured passphrase on both the stations and the access point. This obviates the need for an authentication server, which in many home and small office environments will not be available nor desirable. Possible cipher suites include: WEP, TKIP, and AES (Advanced Encryption Standard). We talk more about TKIP and AES when addressing data privacy below.

•Authentication. EAP over 802.1X is used for authentication. Mutual authentication is gained by choosing an EAP type supporting this feature and is required by WPA. 802.1X port access control prevents full access to the network until authentication completes. 802.1X EAPOL-Key packets are used by WPA to distribute per-session keys to those stations successfully authenticated.

The supplicant in the station uses the authentication and cipher suite information contained in the information elements to decide which authentication method and cipher suite to use. For example, if the access point is using the pre-shared key method then the supplicant need not authenticate using full-blown 802.1X. Rather, the supplicant must simply prove to the access point that it is in possession of the pre-shared key. If the supplicant detects that the service set does not contain a WPA information element then it knows it must use pre-WPA 802.1X authentication and key management in order to access the network.

•Key management. WPA features a robust key generation/management system that integrates the authentication and data privacy functions. Keys are generated after successful authentication and through a subsequent 4-way handshake between the station and access point.

•Data Privacy (Encryption). Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) is used to wrap WEP in sophisticated cryptographic and security techniques to overcome most of its weaknesses.

•Data integrity. TKIP includes a message integrity code (MIC) at the end of each plain text message to ensure messages are not being spoofed.

Wireless Networking Basics

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Contents NETGEAR, Inc Technical Support Iii Vcci Statement Contents Chapter Web Configuration Glossary Contents Audience, Conventions, Scope Chapter About This ManualHtml version of this manual How to Use this ManualHow to Print this Manual About This Manual Chapter Introduction About the Netgear WGE111 Wireless Game AdapterWhat’s in the Box? Key Features and Related Netgear ProductsIntroduction LED Descriptions Status Indicators and Ports of the WGE111Reset Button Reset Push ButtonIntroduction Preparing to Install Your WGE111 Wireless Game Adapter Chapter Basic SetupSystem Requirements Placement and Range GuidelinesOperating Modes Mode Switch Position Your SystemWhat you do Personal Computer Plug-and-Go Scenario Planning for TCP/IP Configuration Planning the WGE111 Wireless Game Adapter ConfigurationDynamic IP using Dhcp Fixed IPAuthentication Scheme Selection Understanding WEP Authentication and EncryptionSubnet mask Encryption Strength Choices Understanding WPA-PSK Encryption Security Using the Netgear Smart Wizard Configuration AssistantPower Ethernet Select the wireless network Basic Setup Select the TCP/IP Settings Basic Setup Configuring the Wireless Game Adapter Using TCP/IP Chapter Web ConfigurationViewing the Wireless Game Adapter Status Connecting to the Wireless Game AdapterStatus screen Wireless SettingsIP Settings Configuring the Adapter for Infrastructure Mode AccessDevice Information Data Rate Infrastructure mode configuration screenWireless Security Using WEP Security EncryptionAuthentication Type Network Name SsidUsing WPA-PSK Security Encryption Configuring the Wireless Game Adapter for Ad-Hoc ModeManual Entry Mode Automatic Key Generation PassphraseAd-Hoc mode configuration screen Configuring the IP Settings Viewing the Wireless Networks AvailableIP Settings configuration screen Upgrading the Firmware Changing the WGE111 Wireless Game Adapter PasswordRestore Factory Defaults screen Restoring the Factory DefaultsGo to Troubleshooting the TCP/IP Settings Using Ping on Chapter TroubleshootingBasic Tips Symptom Cause SolutionWireless router or access point, wait, and then See Using the Netgear Smart Wizard Cannot configure the WGE111 from a browser Frequently Asked QuestionsTroubleshooting the Web Configuration Interface Troubleshooting the TCP/IP Settings Using PingRestoring the Default Configuration and Password Troubleshooting Appendix a Technical Specifications Technical Specifications IP Addresses and the Internet Appendix B Understanding IP AddressesThree Main Address Classes Netmask Example of Subnetting a Class B Address Subnet AddressingNetmask Notation Translation Table for One Octet Private IP Addresses IP Configuration by Dhcp Address Resolution ProtocolUnderstanding IP Addresses Wireless Networking Overview Appendix C Wireless Networking BasicsInfrastructure Mode Ad Hoc Mode Peer-to-Peer Workgroup Authentication and WEPNetwork Name Extended Service Set Identification Essid Open System Authentication Authentication802.11b Authentication Open System Steps Do Not Use WEP 802.11b Authentication Shared Key StepsKey Size WEP Configuration OptionsWireless Channels Radio frequency channels used are listed in the table below WPA Wireless SecurityHow Does WPA Compare to WEP? How Does WPA Compare to Ieee 802.11i? What are the Key Features of WPA Security?Wireless Networking Basics Figure C-3 WPA Overview Access point replies with an EAP-request identity message WPA Data Encryption Key Management Temporal Key Integrity Protocol Tkip Product Support for WPA Is WPA Perfect?WPA two-phase authentication Changes to Wireless Access PointsChanges to Wireless Network Adapters New WPA information elementChanges to Wireless Client Programs 1000BASE-T List of Glossary Terms802.1Q 802.3Dhcp Internet service provider NIC Wins Glossary Numerics IndexRFC

WGE111 specifications

The NETGEAR WGE111 is a wireless gaming adapter designed to enhance the gaming experience for console players, allowing them to connect their gaming console to a wireless network effortlessly. This device caters particularly to gamers who wish to enjoy the benefits of wireless connectivity without compromising on performance or speed.

One of the primary features of the WGE111 is its support for the IEEE 802.11g standard, providing data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This speed is essential for online gaming, where lag can significantly impact performance. The adapter ensures a stable and reliable connection, reducing latency and allowing gamers to immerse themselves fully in their favorite titles.

The device is compatible with a wide range of gaming consoles, including PlayStation 2, Xbox, and Nintendo Wii, making it a flexible solution for gaming setups. The WGE111 is equipped with a straightforward Ethernet port, enabling easy connectivity with consoles that lack built-in Wi-Fi capabilities.

Reliability is a notable characteristic of the WGE111, thanks in part to its advanced wireless technologies. With features like WEP and WPA/WPA2 encryption, the adapter ensures that the user’s network remains secure from unauthorized access. Additionally, the WGE111 has a strong range and can maintain a solid connection even in larger homes, providing flexibility in device placement.

Installation of the WGE111 is user-friendly, with a simple plug-and-play setup. This allows gamers to quickly connect their consoles to the router without extensive configuration or technical expertise. The device also includes LED indicators that provide real-time feedback on connection status, simplifying troubleshooting and network management.

Another advantage of the NETGEAR WGE111 is its compact and lightweight design, making it portable and easy to relocate. Whether transitioning between different rooms or even taking it to a friend's house, players can enjoy the convenience of wireless gaming without being tethered to a physical connection.

In summary, the NETGEAR WGE111 wireless gaming adapter is an excellent choice for gamers looking to enhance their online experience. With its high-speed connectivity, compatibility with multiple consoles, robust security features, and ease of setup, the WGE111 stands out as a viable option for anyone looking to enjoy wireless gaming without sacrificing performance.
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